Arsenal anticipated exit of Granit Xhaka has been temporarily halted, despite confirmation from a second source that the deal is nearing completion. Mikel Arteta, the Arsenal manager, is insistent that another transfer has to be done before Xhaka’s departure can proceed.
The midfield department is in expectation to undergo significant changes at the Emirates this summer. According to The Times, Arsenal’s board has given the green light for a double swoop worth £170m for Moises Caicedo and Declan Rice. However, Bayern Munich is also vying for the signature of West Ham captain Rice. In addition, Chelsea will make a renewed effort to secure the services of Brighton’s Caicedo after losing out to PSG in the race for Manuel Ugarte.
Arsenal is determined to secure the signings of two new starting midfielders. With Granit Xhaka poised to make way for the incoming reinforcements. Xhaka, despite excelling in a box-to-box role this season, is on the verge of joining Bayer Leverkusen.
According to renowned journalist Fabrizio Romano, Xhaka’s move to Germany is “very, very advanced” .With Xabi Alonso’s Leverkusen closing in on a €15m (approximately £13m) deal. A four-year contract has already been in proposal to the Swiss international.
While there were initial speculations that German powerhouses Bayern Munich and Borussia Dortmund could disrupt Leverkusen’s plans. Romano threw away the Dortmund rumors. And Sky Germany’s Florian Plettenberg gave confirmation that Bayern’s interest in Xhaka is not a topic of discussion.
However, Arsenal and manager Mikel Arteta are currently delaying the transfer. As they insist on securing a worthy replacement before finalizing Xhaka’s departure. The Gunners want to ensure they have a suitable replacement lined up or signed before allowing Xhaka to leave.
Arsenal and their other worries
In order to facilitate Granit Xhaka’s departure, Arsenal is currently in a state of uncertainty until they make progress in securing a midfield signing of their own. Three targets have been in mention by Florian Plettenberg.
Arsenal is reportedly in interest for Declan Rice, Moises Caicedo, and Ilkay Gundogan before allowing Xhaka to leave. The names of Rice and Caicedo were specifically in mention. Along with Manchester City captain Gundogan.
Notably, Gundogan could become available as a free agent this summer. As his contract with Manchester City is to expire on June 30.
Arsenal has expressed interest in the experienced German midfielder, aged 32. And appears determined to outbid Manchester City to secure his services.
Reportedly, Manchester City is only willing to offer Ilkay Gundogan a one-year contract with an option for a second year. On the other hand, Arsenal is in preparation to provide a guaranteed two-year contract, showing their willingness to go beyond City’s offer.
However, Gundogan’s preference is to stay with Manchester City. Placing the final decision in the hands of the reigning champions.
If Arsenal faces further delays in signing any of their targets, namely Declan Rice, Moises Caicedo, or Gundogan. It will result in Granit Xhaka’s move to Bayer Leverkusen is on a hold until a resolution is done.
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